Potential Consequences of Sacramento Criminal Charges



When someone is arrested in Northern California and suspected of committing a crime, they face a number of life-changing consequences should they ultimately be convicted of the charges against them. The types of punishment criminal suspects may be sentenced to depend on a set of factors. This includes things like the nature of the crime, previous criminal history, and how the offense is classified from a legal standpoint.

Criminal Charges

When someone is arrested, that person is suspected of having committed a criminal offense. As part of their arrest, the suspect will be charged with a crime. It is common for criminal charges to change as a case develops. For example, someone suspected of driving under the influence may be arrested for DUI and could face additional charges if they struck another vehicle causing catastrophic injuries.

Because all criminal suspects are innocent until proven guilty, regardless of the charges they face, they should always seek representation from a Sacramento Criminal Defense Attorney for help in answering the charges against them. At the Law Office of David Knoll, they understand what it takes to strategize an effective defense in order to reach the most favorable outcome possible. To find out how they can protect your rights as a criminal defendant give them a call at (916) 447-5294. You can also schedule a consultation with an experienced Sacramento criminal defense attorney at their law offices at 301 J St Suite 201, Sacramento, CA, 95816.

Misdemeanor Charges

Misdemeanor charges are typically associated with minor criminal offenses. As such, they carry lighter consequences should a person be convicted of a misdemeanor. Some examples of misdemeanor crimes in California are minor traffic offenses, illegal drug possession in small amounts, and low-dollar theft charges. All misdemeanors carry a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail.

Although misdemeanors are considered less serious offenses, individuals should always secure representation from a Sacramento Criminal Defense Attorney for advice on how to handle their case. The type of plea a suspect enters and the way their case is handled will directly affect what type of punishment they ultimately receive.

Felony Charges

Felony crimes are usually far more serious than misdemeanors. Some felony crimes are violent offenses like rape, murder, and assault. Other times they may be similar to misdemeanors like drug possession or theft, but associated with higher-dollar amounts. Because felonies are more serious they carry heftier sentences. The minimum sentence a person convicted of a felony will face is a year in prison. The maximum penalty they can receive in California is lifetime imprisonment. Since crimes in California can carry potentially life-changing consequences, criminal suspects should always consult with a Sacramento Criminal Defense Lawyer to help them strategize a defense that mitigates potential consequences as much as possible.